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Mayor dismisses people’s concerns, cultural beliefs

Mayor dismisses people’s concerns, cultural beliefs I write to express my disappointment in Mayor Alan Arakawa’s statements regarding the situation at Iao and the sanctity of pohaku.

The mayor appeared on “Hawaii News Now” recently, and in addressing the removal and disposal of rocks from Iao Valley asserted that “there is no such thing as sacred rocks.” This comment is not only a grave misunderstanding and misrepresentation of our people’s history, but is also degrading to our people’s continued beliefs.

One need not look far to uncover the long-standing sanctity of the area — rocks included. Iao Valley was the site of the historic Battle of Kepaniwai and is the final resting place of many esteemed high chiefs.

With these comments, the mayor dismisses our people’s concerns and cultural beliefs. This is particularly troubling as a trustee of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. He uniformly writes off our people’s “native religion” as an “excuse” to protecting this place.

I want to thank the community members who are actively engaging with our political leaders to understand, honor and, most of all, respect the history of this place and people. I encourage Mayor Arakawa to seek consultation from knowledgeable practitioners; many of whom are willing and able to help inform us of the best way to malama Maui’s resources, people and larger community.

Carmen Hulu Lindsey

Maui Trustee

Office of Hawaiian Affairs

Kula

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